Point of interest: Southpaw vs. southpaw

The co-main event for Bellator 222 features an intriguing matchup of veteran-savvy southpaws.

As I often preach in my breakdowns, a matchup of lefties can often be tricky, especially considering most southpaws predicate their games on facing an opponent of the opposite stance. For this reason, the more “skilled” striker does not always demonstrate his perceived on-paper advantages.

With that in mind, I will be curious to see Lyoto Machida’s approach in what will be his seventh straight southpaw opponent.

Typically circling along the outside of range, Machida will lure his opposition into his space, keeping left-cross counters on a hair-trigger for anyone who commits to entering. Once finding offensive angles to his liking, the Brazilian blitzes in left-to-right punch continuums.

When feeling in stride, the 41-year-old will unleash his patented left body and head kicks, a weapon that has seemingly gotten stronger since his time spent with Rafael Cordeiro at Kings MMA. In said time, Machida has opted to throw more leg kicks in his repertoire, a trend I will be curious to see if he carries over to this fight considering the potential level-changing threats coming his way.

A self-proclaimed “gangster” from West Linn, Ore., Chael Sonnen is a southpaw who has little issues with confidence when it comes to trading in a fist fight.

Demonstrating solid boxing fundamentals (something he’s had experience in from a young age), Sonnen utilizes strong fakes while working behind a pumping jab. And with his patented left cross not far behind, the 22-year pro will quickly close the distance as he looks to change his level.

This high-percentage approach has served Sonnen well over the years, and it’s even earned him some memorable moments against skilled strikers like Anderson Silva. That said, despite showing arguable improvements to his striking in recent outings, Sonnen will still have to mind being timed by one of the best in the game when it comes to countering –– a trade-off that should keep exchanges exciting while they last.

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It was expected to be exciting as long as it lasted, and it was – but Justin Gaethje ultimately delivered on another exciting finish, stopping Donald Cerrone in the first. The lightweight bout was the UFC on ESPN+ 16 main event at Rogers Arena in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada....